WSU Cougars vs Washington Huskies: 5 Keys to a Coug Apple Cup Victory

Get A Big Start/Gain Momentum

Nov 16, 2013; Tucson, AZ, USA; Washington State Cougars running back Marcus Mason (35) runs the ball under pressure from Arizona Wildcats linebacker Derrick Turituri (45) and cornerback Shaquille Richardson (5) during the fourth quarter at Arizona Stadium. The Cougars beat the Wildcats 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

The Cougars will have to get out to a big start on Friday, gain quick momentum and keep it going. The Huskies are not happy with last year’s upset in Pullman and are looking for revenge. Getting to the Huskies early will be a big advantage for the Cougars this weekend and would help them out. Husky stadium can get very loud so quieting them down early and allowing Halliday to make his changes at the line without confusion will be big.

As soon as Travis Coons missed the game-winning field goal last year in Martin Stadium I knew it was all over. Momentum is key in the Apple Cup and gaining it early and keeping it will decide the winner. Anything can happen in the Apple Cup and making sure things are swinging the Cougars way will be key.

As previously mentioned, it will be senior day in Seattle and will be a very emotional game for both squads. Right away the momentum is in the Huskies’ favor and the Cougars will have to take that away as soon as possible and keep the Husky faithful quiet.

Again, this is also the first Apple Cup in Husky Stadium since 2009. In 2011 the Apple Cup was played at Century Link Field due to the renovation of Husky Stadium.